Lawmakers will vote on the bill on Tuesday, which would see women fined 150 euros (£125.45) if they wear the full veil, known as the burqa or nihab, in public places, including in the street.

In a statement published in several newspapers, Rachid Nekkaz, who tried to stand in the presidential elections in 2007, said he would use proceeds from property sales for a one million euro fund to help women pay any fines.

He has set up an association, ‘Hands off my Constitution‘, which he said viewed banning the veil in the street as unconstitutional, although was not opposed to a ban in public places.